Month: April 2024

The 5 key trends in digital transformation for 2024: what companies need to know

In a world where technology is developing at an incredible pace, digital transformation is not just a trend but a necessity for every company that wants to remain competitive. Experts from the consulting company Avenga have identified five key trends that will shape the business landscape in the near future.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to lead the way in digital transformation, transforming industries and redefining business capabilities. These technologies automate routine tasks and open up new horizons for innovation and service personalization. In particular, advanced data analytics allows for processing and analyzing huge volumes of data faster and more accurately than ever before. Personalization of the customer experience enables companies to create individualized offers for each customer, optimize the customer journey, and improve service. In turn, automation and process optimization not only increase enterprise efficiency but also significantly reduce the likelihood of errors. 

 

Moreover, artificial intelligence also improves decision-making by providing organizations with deep and accurate analytical data for making more informed decisions. According to specialists from the leading digital transformation consulting company Avenga, a prominent example of successful AI and machine learning application is Amazon. The company uses artificial intelligence to personalize product recommendations for its customers. More specifically, machine learning systems analyze purchase history, search queries, and user behavior on the website to suggest the most relevant products and enhance the customer experience.

Process Automation and Robotics

Process automation and robotics are changing traditional approaches to business and production management. These technologies guarantee efficiency and cost reduction, increased accuracy and reliability of task execution, improved working conditions, integration with artificial intelligence, and the development of intelligent production. For example, Toyota has implemented robots on its production lines to automate assembly operations. This has increased productivity, reduced the likelihood of errors, and improved workplace safety for employees.

Cloud Technologies and Big Data

According to our interviewees, cloud technologies and big data analytics are the most significant trends in digital transformation, offering enterprises new ways to store, process, and analyze information to improve decision-making and business operations. The scalability and flexibility of cloud solutions allow companies to amplify their IT resources according to current needs, providing agility and cost optimization. Access to advanced analytical tools enables companies to better understand customer needs, optimize processes, and make informed strategic decisions. 

Improving collaboration and communication contributes to better interaction between teams, regardless of their geographical location. Cloud technologies also offer advanced cybersecurity solutions, helping protect valuable data from external threats. Importantly, these technologies are available to companies of all sizes, not just large corporations. 

Among successful examples of implementing this trend is Netflix. The company uses cloud computing and Big Data analytics to store and process huge volumes of video content, as well as to analyze user preferences and optimize its streaming service.

Cybersecurity

In the era of digital transformation, cybersecurity is a top priority for companies of all levels and industries. Hackers constantly refine their methods, using increasingly sophisticated ways to gain unauthorized access to corporate resources. Modern cybersecurity solutions aim to create integrated systems that can automatically detect, analyze, and respond to potential threats. Training employees in the principles and basics of cybersecurity becomes a necessity, as many attacks begin with social engineering or phishing. 

Moreover, compliance with regulatory requirements and standards in cybersecurity, such as GDPR, HIPAA, or PCI DSS, not only protects the company from fines but also enhances its business reputation. Developing and implementing a comprehensive strategy includes regular audits, monitoring, threat analysis, and rapid incident response. For example, CyberArk provides cybersecurity solutions, specializing in privileged access management and protection against internal threats. Their products protect critical assets and comply with compliance requirements.

Sustainable Development and Social Responsibility

Sustainable development and social responsibility are an integral part of the digital transformation strategy for companies, as consumers and investors increasingly choose brands that demonstrate care for social and environmental issues. A good example is Unilever, which has launched a sustainable development program to minimize its environmental footprint and improve the social well-being of the communities with which it interacts. The program specifically focuses on reducing waste in production, increasing energy efficiency, and supporting local farmers.

It is important to understand that digital transformation is not a one-time project but a continuous process that requires constant adaptation and innovation. The five key trends outlined by the experts from the consulting company Avenga emphasize the need for companies to be flexible, secure, innovative, and socially responsible in their approach to digital change. Understanding and embracing these trends will allow organizations not only to survive but also to thrive in a rapidly changing and increasingly digital world.

 

Vantage Data Centers Expands EMEA Portfolio with First Dublin Campus Featuring Next-Generation Energy Solution

Vantage Data Centers, a leading global provider of hyperscale data center campuses, today announced its entrance into the Irish market with the development of a multi-phase data center campus (DUB1). The company will invest more than €1 billion over multiple phases to support the construction and delivery of the campus in one of the largest data center markets in Europe. The first two phases consist of 52MW of IT capacity, with the first phase expected to be operational in late 2024. Upon completion, DUB1 will mark Vantage’s 14th EMEA campus in a growing regional portfolio that spans seven countries.

The company’s flagship Ireland campus will be located approximately nine miles (15 kilometers) from the Dublin City Center in Profile Park, Grange Castle, an area known for its data centers. Sited on 22 acres (nine hectares), the 405,000 square foot (38,000 square meter) campus will consist of one 32MW facility and one 20MW facility and has available land and power to add a third facility in the future. The highly efficient campus is being built in alignment with Vantage’s sustainable blueprint to deliver an industry-leading annualized Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.2 using virtually no water for cooling.

Vantage Data Centers is committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030 and drives emission reductions through the use of renewable energy and sustainable fuel alternatives across its value chain. This aligns with Ireland’s climate action plans and with the environmental commitments of the company’s key customers.

The DUB1 campus will include an on-site 100MVA multi-fuel generation plant capable of running a combination of fuels, primarily hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO), a renewable fuel, and gas fed by Gas Networks Ireland. Given the temporary power constraints in Dublin, this on-site generation plant will support current capacity constraints by alleviating pressure on energy demand from the grid while achieving optimal efficiency and power output. The generation plant is also capable of funneling power back to the grid, further supporting power availability in the Dublin area. In addition, Vantage plans to deploy HVO in place of conventional diesel fuel throughout its fleet of back-up generators and is working to obtain corporate power purchase agreements (CPPAs) for green energy, such as biomethane from local providers. Currently, the company is leveraging HVO for 99% of its fuel requirements during the construction phase.

“The South Dublin Chamber warmly welcomes the confidence shown in our area through the €1 billion investment by Vantage Data Centers,” said Peter Byrne, CEO, South Dublin Chamber. “Vantage Data Centers will not only be contributing to local employment and taxation but will be ensuring the safety of our data and future-proofing business for years to come with this major investment in technology.”

“With Dublin being one of the biggest data center markets in the world, this expansion further solidifies Vantage’s role at the forefront of the digital infrastructure revolution and signifies the start of a strong partnership with local officials and the community,” said David Howson, president, EMEA at Vantage Data Centers. “Throughout this development, there will be a significant positive economic impact to the community as we employ more than 1,100 individuals during peak construction and create approximately 165 jobs to operate the campus. Vantage is committed to being a good neighbor where we build and operate data centers, and we are eager to continue working with community organizations such as Round Tower GAA Club, Newcastle Tidy Towns, St. Francis Football Club, Ballyboden St. Enda’s GAA, St. Ronan’s National School in Deansrath and others.”

“Vantage is committed to environmental responsibility and is pleased that our sustainability goals, including reducing emissions, achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2030 and maximizing energy efficiency, align closely with those of the Irish government and regulatory bodies as we continue growing Ireland’s position as a leader in the digital age for cloud computing,” said Jinél Fourie, director of public policy, EMEA at Vantage Data Centers. “As environmental technology continues to advance, including the inaugural use of a multi-fuel generation plant in Dublin, we look forward to continuing our local partnerships to explore additional solutions to enhance the local community.”

For more information on Vantage Data Centers’ campuses, please visit: https://vantage-dc.com/data-center-locations/.

Tech innovator Human Mobile Devices (HMD) has today revealed its first line of smartphones under the original HMD line: HMD Pulse Pro, HMD Pulse+ and HMD Pulse.

Tech innovator Human Mobile Devices (HMD) has today revealed its first line of smartphones under the original HMD line: HMD Pulse Pro, HMD Pulse+ and HMD Pulse.

The HMD Pulse collection sets the tone for HMD’s original line: clean lines, calm tones, modern aesthetics, elegant repairability and bold, brazen design at an accessible price.

CMO of Human Mobile Devices, Lars Silberbauer, comments: “We’ve got our finger on the pulse, and recognise consumers’ needs and anticipate market trends; repair is the cornerstone of a fresh chapter in smartphone innovation. Forget the ordinary, this is a new era of smartphone sophistication with substance.”

Ben Wood, Chief Analyst CCS insight, said: “Repairability is a hot topic for consumers, and CCS insight has seen interest in repairing mobile phones increase significantly in both the EU and US over the last year. Approximately 55% of those surveyed in the EU said they would like to have a device that’s outside its warranty period repaired at a reasonable cost rather than replacing it with a new device. In the US interest is also strong, at an impressive 49%. We also note that 47% of EU consumers and 48% of US consumers express readiness to pay slightly more for environmentally friendly products, which underlines an appetite for more repairable products.”1

Wood goes onto say: “HMD has been a trailblazer for more repairable smartphones. It’s encouraging that the HMD Pulse Family is even easier for consumers to repair, and this design decision aligns well with the consumer trends we are seeing in our research”. Ben Wood, Chief Analyst, CCS Insight.

Kyle Wiens, CEO of iFixit, comments: “HMD has just announced its fourth repairable device: HMD Pulse Pro. HMD’s ongoing commitment to designing phones with repairability in mind is an encouraging shift in our throwaway culture, proving that HMD has the innovative culture needed to drive advances in repairability. We’re keen to collaborate as they work towards making repairable phones the norm, not the exception.”

The HMD Pulse Collection 

Each device in the new HMD Pulse range is built to be repairable, HMD calls it ‘Gen 1 repairability’, empowering owners to replace a damaged display, bent charging port, or a depleted battery, without an engineering degree. Users can simply pick up a self-repair kit in partnership with iFixit, starting from €19.95

HMD Pulse Pro: Your selfie game is about to level up

HMD Pulse Pro is a selfie-lover’s new best friend. With a market-leading 50MP Selfie Camera, your picture-perfect snaps will be the envy of all this summer. Give your phone the two-finger salute to kick-start all new Selfie Gesture Navigation, capturing core memories with just a wave of the hand, or go hands-free with a finger-heart, thumbs up or two-handed heart sign – perfect for those group selfies. And you can wave goodbye to blurry night-time selfies with HMD Pulse Pro’s AI Super Portrait mode, rendering even the darkest selfie as clear as day. Making it easier than ever to capture memories in high-definition, HMD Pulse Pro makes you look like a pro photographer – without any training.

HMD’s Pulse Pro is a fashion statement that won’t go out of style, available in three stunning shades: Glacier Green, Twilight Purple and Black Ocean. And it doesn’t stop at the handset. Pulse Pro in Glacier Green has its own statement colour-matched charger which is sold separately €24.99. With its timeless design and sleek silhouette, it’s giving major celebrity vibes, without the celebrity price tag at €179.99

HMD Pulse+  and HMD Pulse

HMD Pulse Pro’s little siblings, HMD Pulse+ and HMD Pulse, offer up to 59 hours of battery life and Gen 1 repairability, in the same three eye-catching shades. 3 HMD Pulse+ €159 boasts a 50MP rear camera and depth sensor that lets you snap quality pictures with ease, whilst HMD Pulse, the final part of HMD’s first original trio, strikes the perfect balance between affordability, performance and repairability. With an 13MP camera complete with AI HDR and skin-tone optimisation for naturally vibrant shots, HMD Pulse packs a punch, for just €129

With top-range specs at a mid-range price point, the HMD Pulse Family aims to make the smartphone category accessible to all.

HMD Pulse+ and HMD Pulse are available online at hmd.com from 1st May 2024. HMD Pulse Pro is coming soon along with the Glacier green charger. Self-repair kits available from iFixit starting at €19.95

Live Quieter. Like a Bosch

Looking for quiet appliances that create a peaceful home? Bosch has you covered with a range Quiet Mark awarded product that are sure to give you peace of mind that your appliances will not emit any unpleasant or intrusive noise that could disturb the tranquillity of your home.

Bosch believes appliances should be seen and not heard, the Quiet Mark award technically assesses and certifies the quietest solutions to unwanted noise.

Customers can rest assure when they see the ‘Q’ logo on a wide range of Bosch product, including the Series 6 Washing machine, front loader 10 kg 1400 rpm, Series 4 Washer dryer 9/5 kg 1400 rpm, Series 6 Heat pump tumble dryer 9 kg, Series 6 free-standing fridge-freezer with freezer at bottom 203 x 60 cm, Series 6 free-standing dishwasher 60 cm.

Selected Bosch appliances were awarded a Quiet Mark for the following innovative features;

Eco Silence Drive™

Bosch Series 6 washing machine along with washer dryers, dishwashers and extractor hoods feature an advanced motor that produces maximum efficiency, economy, durability and performance – and operates with an exceptionally low level of noise.

Anti Vibration Design

The sidewalls of all the washing machines, tumble dryers and washer dryers feature a unique design that increases stability and reduces vibrations. Improved sound insulation and low noise shock absorbers further dampen the noise.

Silence on Demand

On already quiet dishwashers such as the Bosch Series 6 free standing dishwasher, this additional feature (activated via the Home Connect app or through voice control) reduces noise to a minimum for up to 30 minutes at any time by an active pause while the dishwasher keeps running.

Silence 50

The Silence 50 programme on the Bosch Series 6 dishwasher (downloadable from the HomeConnect app) cleans at 500C. Decreasing spray pressure, extending the cleaning phase and no end of programme audio beep all help to reduce noise.

PerfectAir

A special sensor in Bosch’s extractor hoods that monitors the air during cooking, automatically selecting the correct power level to capture steam and odours, as well as keeping noise to a minimum. This feature can be found in the Bosch Series 8 wall-mounted cooker hood.

Clean Air Filters

Bosch Clean Air recirculation filters in extractor hoods such as the Series 6 wall-mounted cooker hood, have a lamellar structure that can produce up to a 5dB reduction in noise level compared to standard Bosch recirculation systems.

Quiet Wash Programme

This function in the Series 8 built-in washing machine and other Bosch washer dryers extends the wash programme with reduced spin speed and cancels the end of programme audio signal.

Quiet Dry Programme*

This noise-limiting option in the Bosch tumble dryers reduces the drum spin speed, extends the drying time, cuts out the anti-wrinkle phase and switches off the user interface sound.

*Available on Series 8 tumble dryers only as a downloadable option via the Home Connect app

Tech Review – QDOS OptiGuard Infinity Glass for Apple Watch Ultra 2/Ultra – 49mm

The OptiGuard Infinity Glass for Apple Watch Ultra 2/Ultra – 49mm is a simple solution to stop your expensive Watch Ultra series getting marked or scratched. Anything Apple is expensive to repair as we all know and just like your smartphone it is best to get covered up.

This simply fits on over your existing watch face and clips on, it will not fall over nor does it interfere with having to change straps as I often do to rotate them and keep clean, you can still wirelessly charge your watch too without the need to remove it.

There is no disruption to your digital crown or buttons either or using the watch itself via the screen and overall a simple effective product you should invest in with the cost of repairing this watch countless times more. See the video below for more.

Features

  • All around protection – flawless protection with minimal bulk
  • Ultra-thin premium tempered glass with shock absorbent polycarbonate bumper
  • Totally clear to show the Apple Watch’s natural beauty
  • Precision touch sensitivity
  • Easy application – Snap on for easy fit
  • Easy access to buttons and scroller
  • 9H scratch and impact defence
  • Wireless charging compatible

BUY 

Video Review

Revolut expects to boost workforce by 40% in 2024 as company reaches 10,000 employees

Revolut, the global fintech with more than 40 million customers around the world, and 2.7 million in Ireland, has today announced it expects to boost its global headcount by 40% in 2024. The announcement comes as the company reaches 10,000 employees globally, and continues to grow its workforce, all whilst many other financial institutions are making job cuts or hiring freezes. The company currently has over 75 roles advertised in Ireland.

The company has grown exponentially since its founding in 2015. Revolut started the year with just over 8,000 employees, but has reached the 10,000 milestone in little over three months. The financial institution plans to continue to build out its Sales, Customer Support and FinCrime teams, for which the majority of new roles will be created.

Maurice Murphy, General Manager Revolut Bank UAB – Ireland Branch, commented: “With every new Revoluter we hire, we’re thinking about how they’ll help us drive even more positive impact for our customers. 10,000 employees is an exciting milestone but we’re not stopping there. We’re continuing to recruit the best talent across the industry and are excited to be expanding across a range of specialties as we continue to build Revolut worldwide.”

As a remote-first business, Revolut is able to access a wider talent pool by hiring from across the country and offering employees more flexibility in where they work. Revolut also continues to be an employer of choice for prospective candidates, having received over one million job applications globally in 2023. The Company was also certified a Great Place to Work across eight of its markets.

Salesforce Report: 95% of service professionals in Ireland using AI say it saves them time

Salesforce, the global leader in CRM, today released the new State of Service report, sharing insights from over 5,500 service professionals across 30 countries — including 100 from Ireland.

The report covers the priorities, challenges, and strategies shaping customer service, including how service teams are tapping AI and data to increase revenue, efficiency, and customer satisfaction amid rising customer expectations.

Key insights from the research include:

  • Organisations Lean into AI to Boost Efficiencies. To scale service without sacrificing quality, organisations are increasingly turning to AI.
    • 95% of service professionals in Ireland using AI say it saves them time
    • 73% of service organisations in Ireland are using or evaluating AI
    • 85% of service organisations in Ireland plan to increase AI investments this year
    • Top 3 service use cases for AI in Ireland: Customer-facing intelligent assistants, agent-facing intelligent assistants and service responses.

  • Service Organisations Double-Down on Revenue Generation. The trend of viewing service as a revenue driver instead of a cost centre is accelerating, and service teams are making investments to scale.
    • 83% of organisations in Ireland expect service to contribute more revenue this year
    • 68% of service organisations in Ireland expect more budget this year
    • 75% of service organisations in Ireland expect more headcount this year

  • Escalating Demands Pressure Service Teams. As customer expectations rise, service agents are feeling the squeeze.
    • Service agents in Ireland spend an average of just 33% of their time helping customers
    • 78% of service organisations in Ireland expect higher case volume next year
    • 90% of service professionals in Ireland say customers are more demanding than they used to be

  • Service Boosts Its Data Capabilities. Service organisations are ramping up their data integration efforts to fuel human agents and AI systems.
    • 93% of service professionals in Ireland say better access to data from other teams would improve support
    • 84% of service organisations in Ireland are increasing investment in data integration this year

“The power of data and AI, is enabling Irish service and field service teams to be more proactive and productive,“ said Paul O’ Sullivan, SVP Solution Engineering and CTO Salesforce UKI.

“We’re seeing a strategic shift within businesses, with teams deflecting more issues with smarter self-service, and devoting more time and energy to generating revenue.”

Methodology
Salesforce conducted a double-anonymous survey of over 5,500 service professionals between December 8, 2023, and January 22, 2024. Respondents were sourced from 30 countries and roles including service operations, service agents, mobile workers, service managers/directors, and service leadership/head of service.

Additional methodology and survey demographic details can be found in the report.

For more information:

Sony Future Filmmaker Awards 2024 Announces Shortlist of 30 International Filmmakers

Creo is delighted to announce the shortlist for the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards 2024. The shortlist of 30 filmmakers across six categories are awarded the unique experience of attending a week of special events at the Sony Pictures Studios lot in Los Angeles, including a workshop program providing unparalleled access behind-the-scenes of the industry and culminating in the Awards ceremony on May 30, 2024 where the six category winners, chosen by a selection of expert judges, are announced.

Established by Creo and sponsored by Sony, the sophomore edition of the major annual awards program for short films provides a gateway for the development of exceptional cinematic talent and sets out to elevate voices with an original perspective on storytelling. This year’s shortlist was chosen from over 8,400 films by more than 5,000 filmmakers across 148 countries and territories submitted across six categories: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Environment, Animation, Student, and Future Format.

The shortlisted stories range from a poignant documentary about two Holocaust survivors miraculously reunited after 80 years, a filmmaker’s search for the last remaining gibbon in Kuala Lumpur, a homeless ballet dancer undertaking a life-changing audition, a spontaneous romance between two strangers thrown together by grounded flights, and much more. Representing a truly global perspective on filmmaking, the shortlist includes films from Australia, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Egypt, Estonia, Germany, Ghana, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Mexico, Nigeria, South Africa, Thailand, the United Kingdom, Uruguay, and the United States.

Working from a longlist of commended submissions, the 30 shortlisted filmmakers were chosen by Emmy-award winning cinematographer Robert Primes ASCand celebrated Australian filmmaker Unjoo Moon. At the second stage of the judging process, judges Michael Barker and Tom Bernard, Co-Founders and Co-Presidents of Sony Pictures Classics (Call Me By Your Name, The Father, Whiplash); Rob Hardy ASC, BSC, BAFTA award-winning cinematographer (Mission: Impossible – Fallout, Ex-Machina, Civil War) ; Kate Reid BSC, acclaimed British cinematographer (Game of Thrones, Great Expectations, Silo) will choose this year’s category winners, awarding creative excellence and original approaches to narrative. Both stages of the judging process are chaired by award-winning director Justin Chadwick (Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom, The Other Boleyn Girl, Tulip Fever).

The 30 shortlisted filmmakers will be flown to Los Angeles to attend a comprehensive four-day workshop program at the Sony Pictures Studios lot in Culver City from May 28 – 31, 2024, culminating in a black-tie Awards ceremony on May 30, 2024. Held at the Cary Grant Theater and hosted by Entertainment Tonight’s Denny Directo, during the ceremony the six category winners will be announced, receiving a range of cash prizes and equipment. This immersive experience provides filmmakers with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to connect with fellow filmmakers and leaders in the field of cinema, and to gain exclusive access behind-the-scenes of the industry, with workshops led by Sony Pictures executives, and covering a range of topics from keynotes by major cinematographers, screenings and Q&A sessions, to insights into working with talent agencies and using cutting-edge technologies, to film scoring and music rights.

Justin Chadwick, award-winning theater, television and film director and Chair of the Jury, says: “The level of submission and the international scope of new voices shortlisted for the Awards is thrilling. Across the 30 chosen filmmakers the perspectives told are manifold and captivating, charged with a passion and authenticity. I am delighted to once again lead this selection of filmmaking; a vision of storytelling and cinematic ingenuity and an aperture into the filmmakers who shall make up the future of our industry.”

Scott Gray, Founder and CEO, Creo, says: “With a staggering 8,400 films submitted this year, the caliber of entries received for this second edition of the Sony Future Filmmaker Awards and the  shortlist of filmmakers selected express the exceptional, global stories set to be showcased at this year’s event. We are grateful to Sony for providing this incredible opportunity for emerging filmmakers, and we extend our gratitude to our esteemed panel of judges for their invaluable expertise and insight in selecting the shortlist to join us in Los Angeles this May.”

The films and filmmakers comprising this year’s shortlist are:

FICTION

The Fiction category rewards narrative-led submissions that convey an original fictional story or event.

Katie Blair (USA), Imogene – Imogene is a single, free-spirited New Yorker in her 40s, whose traditional family is plotting to get her pregnant by inviting a donor for dinner;

Tan Ce Ding (Malaysia), Please Hold the Line – A young scam call operator finds herself in a moral dilemma as she navigates a life-changing situation;

Elliott Gonzo (UK), Hard Times – In east London, Danny, a man juggling fatherhood and addiction, is unexpectedly left to look after his daughter for the night, making a risky decision to involve her in a dangerous job for a much-needed paycheck;

Jason Hogan (UK), Twenty – Emily, a homeless ballet dancer, undertakes a potentially life-changing audition;

Margareth Villers (Estonia), What’s Up With Numbats? – In a small town library, meticulous Eve embarks on an absurd quest to find a missing book, determined to prove her colleague wrong after a minor disagreement.

NON-FICTION

The Non-Fiction category awards short films that are predominantly factual in content. These can include archive footage, documentary footage, reenactments and animation.

Jean Chapiro (Mexico), Hasta Encontrarlos (Till We Find Them) – After her daughter disappears in Mexico, a determined mother forms a collective of grieving families, navigating the harrowing landscape of disappearances as they search for loved ones, finding solace in healing dolls representing their missing children;

Olawunmi Hassan (Nigeria), Ìrún Dídì – From traditional Yoruba techniques to modern interpretations, the film traces the evolution of the timeless art of hair plaiting, as it becomes a sacred ritual of self-care and empowerment;

Jordan Matthew Horowitz (USA), Jack and Sam – A poignant documentary about two Holocaust survivors miraculously reunited after 80 years;

Florian Nick (Germany), Beyond Hope – Following highly trained volunteers dedicated to rescuing people in danger, the film portrays the heroic work of the Icelandic Association for Search & Rescue, exploring the physical and emotional challenges upon its members;

Kayla Robinson (USA), Quilted Education – Historian and skilled quilter Karen Hinton Robinson uses her talents to create beautiful artworks to educate and inform on Black history.

ENVIRONMENT

The Environment category champions films that communicate a positive future for the planet. The Environment category is part of Creators for the Planet, a global year-round engagement program set up by Creo and developed in collaboration with the United Nations Foundation and Sony Pictures.

Curtis Essel (Ghana), The Permaculturist – Vegan chef, permaculture enthusiast, and content creator Gaz Oakley meets permaculture expert Bemeriki Dusabe, a Congolese refugee who has been living in a settlement in Uganda for the last 16 years;

Solmund MacPherson (Canada), Wildmen of the Greater Toronto Area – A group of Toronto citizens fed up with the rising cost of living renounce their personhood en masse to legally become animals;

Palmer Morse (USA), Usugilix Awakun – Shayla, a passionate Unangax̂ scientist, delves into vital research concerning toxic shellfish;

Annie Roth (USA), Hellbent – In a small rural town in Pennsylvania, the refuge of a rare salamander and the only source of clean drinking water for 700 people is threatened by the installation of a fracking waste injection well;

Myles Storey (Malaysia), Finding Solo – Amongst the hustle and bustle of Kuala Lumpur lies an isolated forest which is home to Solo, the forest’s last remaining gibbon.

ANIMATION

New to this year’s program, the Animation category embraces filmmakers using stop-motion, motion graphics, computer animation, drawn-on-film, rotoscoping, experimental animation, and additional available techniques.

Eva Louise Hall (USA), Mira – A struggling accordionist busker gets more than she bargained for when her desire to get noticed attracts the attention of a mysterious and enticing competitor;

Radheya Jegatheva (Australia), Bird Drone – A lonely seagull looking for love struggles to accept that its newfound object of affection is a human-operated drone with a limited battery life;

Lisa Kenney (UK), Mum’s Spaghetti – MC mastermind Poppy and her beatboxing border terrier Snoop are the new kids in town – and they’re ready to make their reputation known;

Kyle Novak (Czech Republic), Ángulos de la Hora (Hour Angle) – After their flight is grounded, two strangers agree to an anonymous tryst as their new travel plans are arranged;

Paul Robinson (USA), Resource:Full – Set in a desiccated landscape, an anthropomorphic machine extracts the energy from a solitary tree bud in an attempt to depart the depleted planet.

STUDENT

The Student category rewards filmmakers studying a film course at a registered institution at a diploma or degree level worldwide.

Natalia Bermúdez (Mexico), Centro de Capacitación Cinematográfica (CCC), Mexico, Apnea – Renata, a young and talented swimmer, has a secret and fraught relationship with her swimming coach Liliana;

Katniss Tung Cheng (Hong Kong) & Salvador Alejandro Gutiérrez (Mexico), IADT – Dun Laoghaire Institute Of Art Design + Technology, Ireland, Below the Window – A new mother’s descent into darkness is triggered by the arrival of a mysterious wayfarer;

Farah Jabir (USA), New York University, USA, Kasbi – A middle-aged Pakistani housewife, in search of herself, hires a young, self-assured sex worker to keep her company for the night;

Raheem Razak (South Africa), AFDA, South Africa, Anguish – In what seems to be a zombie-infested world, devoted son Sam must tend to his zombie mother while surviving the apocalypse himself;

Muangthai Sarupkarn (Thailand), King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang, Thailand, Stigma – A look back at one of the most brutal family homicides in Thailand’s history, perpetrated a decade ago in the Bangkok metropolis and described as a ‘cold-blooded’ and racially motivated act.

FUTURE FORMAT

The Future Format category champions a new generation of aspiring filmmakers, welcoming 2 to 5-minute-long films shot exclusively on a smartphone.

Muzamil Bhat (India), Polite Waters – Following the challenges faced by fishermen in the Wular Lake region, the story highlights the impact of man-made pollution and climate change on their work and livelihood;

Cristian Daniel (Uruguay), PARASOMNIA – A young man attempts to discover the unsettling presence in a dark corridor, with no knowledge of what may lie ahead;

Rana Ramy (Egypt), ABOVE/ZERO – A journey through the relationship between light, space, and subject, in an attempt to configure one’s existence within the light;

Bruno Sena (Brazil), Collapse – Through a powerful visual narrative, viewers witness the devastating consequences of human negligence as a fish tank becomes a metaphor for our planet’s deteriorating ecosystems;

Montgomery Taylor (UK), In The Bag – For the first time, witness a bank robbery from an angle you’ve never seen before.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 30 SHORTLISTED FILMMAKERS PLEASE VISIT SONYFUTUREFILMMAKERAWARDS.COM

Microsoft Ireland to mark Girls in ICT Day with live event to inspire participation in STEM

To mark International Girls in ICT Day, Microsoft is hosting a virtual Dream Space event for primary school students across Ireland to inspire them about the opportunities unlocked through STEM and emerging technologies, such as AI.

The unique event will be streamed live from Microsoft Dream Space and feature learning sessions delivered by two fifth class Dream Space Student Ambassadors from Alexandra College, Dublin to peers across the country. Every primary school across the island of Ireland is invited to join the free event on Thursday 25th April between 10am and 12 noon, with the programme suitable for primary school students from third to sixth class (RoI) or P4 to P7 (NI). Teachers can register at the following link to reserve a place for their class.

The immersive event will provide an engaging discussion on the importance of strong women role models in STEM and include an interactive educational experience for students to enhance their STEM skills.

‘Leadership’ is this year’s Girls in ICT Day theme, which closely aligns with the aims of Microsoft’s Dream Space Ambassador Programme, which is focused on advancing STEM leadership amongst young women. The programme helps students develop leadership and digital skills while promoting STEM education within their schools and communities. More than 1,300 Dream Space Ambassadors have graduated from the programme to date, representing 159 schools across the island of Ireland. Each Ambassador completes a series of virtual training sessions during the academic year as part of the programme, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to become STEM leaders in their local community and support, train, and mentor other students and teachers about the benefits of STEM.

The Ambassador programme is one of many that Microsoft Dream Space offers as it strives to provide almost one million students enrolled in primary and secondary schools across the island of Ireland with the opportunities to learn and develop the STEM and AI skills they will need to become the digital leaders of tomorrow.

Since its launch in 2018, over 100,000 girls across Ireland have engaged with Dream Space, helping to encourage more young women to consider a career in STEM.

Dream Space is one of a number of education and skilling programmes that Microsoft is delivering as part of its ambition to ‘Skill Up Ireland’, providing people of all ages, experiences and backgrounds with the opportunity to upskill for an AI enabled future.

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Lead and Vice President of Microsoft Global Operations Service Center, said: “At Microsoft, we believe it’s crucial that everyone has the opportunity to thrive in the workplaces of tomorrow. With women currently comprising less than a third of the ICT workforce in Ireland, it’s clear that we need to inspire change among the next generation of the workforce and encourage more young women to consider a career in STEM.

“As an industry leader, we believe we have an important role to play in helping to educate young women from a diverse range of backgrounds and communities about the opportunities provided by STEM and provide them with pathways to develop the digital skills to forge a successful career in technology. That’s why we continue to expand and strengthen Microsoft Dream Space, our ambitious programme that is providing every student across the island of Ireland with the opportunity to engage in STEM learning. Since its launch, over 100,000 girls have engaged with the programme, providing an important avenue for more young women to engage with digital technologies and empowering them to consider a career in STEM.

“This week’s live Dream Space event recognises Girls in ICT Day and provides the opportunity for students across the length and breadth of the country to engage in and enjoy a STEM focused lesson and start to develop the skills that will be essential for tomorrow’s leaders. I would encourage every primary school across the country to consider joining the free event this week.”

Speaking ahead of Girls in ICT Day, Isobel Fay, Dream Space Student Ambassador from Our Lady of Mercy Convent School in Booterstown, said, “I’m really excited to take part in the Dream Space Girls in ICT event this week and learn about the importance of technology. Since taking part in the Dream Space Ambassador programme, I’ve learned so much about new technologies like AI and how they can be used to solve different problems in society. All the training has been really helpful in boosting my confidence to speak to students and teachers at my school in Booterstown about all the interesting possibilities that we can use technology for. I’m looking forward to more Dream Space sessions over the coming months and continuing to learn about the latest developments in technology.”

For more information and to register for the Microsoft Dream Space Girls in ICT Day event on Thursday 25th April from 10am – 12pm, please visit: https://www.microsoft.com/en-US/dreamspace/ireland/upcoming-events/.